Fota fun for poorly children

The weather might have been cold and wet, but there was nothing that could disguise the warm smiles on the faces of children as they were treated to a Christmas surprise by the emergency services.

Yesterday marked day one of a two-day event which will see a total of 240 sick or vulnerable Cork children being taken to see Santa at Fota House.

The children from Cork University Hospital, The Mercy University Hospital, Cork Deaf Association, Edel House, and St Gabriel’s were taken in a fleet of vintage cars to the historic house which was transformed into a magical Christmas setting thanks to Santa, Cork City Hospitals’ Children’s Club volunteers and a little help from the elves.

The VIP passengers were escorted to their destination by local gardaí, the Cork City Fire Brigade, and the Army, many of whom were volunteering their time.

On arrival, the red carpet treatment was rolled out with a warm welcome from many Christmas characters who took them to meet Santa and and Mrs Claus and the elves who handed out toys and goodie bags.

The children were also provided with treats prepared by Carol Looney and John O’Connor, and Sean Cunningham from Domino’s donated pizzas.

A sign language communicator was on hand to help deaf children have a chat with Santa and a special playroom was set aside where the children drew, painted and sent Christmas cards.

Doctors and nurses travelled with the convoy in case any medical back-up was needed and Red FM DJs provided background music.

“You can’t imagine what an event like this can do for a child who has had a difficult year, due to either illness or circumstances,” said Cork City Hospitals’ Children’s Club chairman John Looney.

“All the Cork City Hospitals Children’s Club staff volunteer their time off to make this a really special event and their enthusiasm and commitment to the club never wanes. This is our 12th Christmas event in Cork and we hope it will be a roaring success and one that children will treasure for a lifetime.”

Mr Looney said that the two-day event would not be possible without the tremendous support from Kinsale Vintage Cars, Mini Club of Ireland, Supt Con Cadogan, Supt Charles Barry, and gardaí from Togher, Bishopstown, and Gurranabraher, as well as the traffic corps.

“On behalf of the Cork City Hospitals Children’s Club we would like to thank all our friends and colleagues for their continuous support and making this all possible,” he said.

Donations to the charity can be made to the Bank of Ireland, Wilton, sort code: 90-28-05 and A/C number: 34653800.